Darcey delighted at Strictly return

Darcey Bussell will return for a second stint on Strictly Come Dancing (BBC)

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Darcey Bussell has confirmed she will return as a judge for a second year on Strictly Come Dancing and said she was "delighted" to remain with the show.

The former ballet star has signed up for a further series after proving popular as the replacement for Alesha Dixon who quit earlier this year.

Bussell, a former principal at the Royal Ballet, has been keen to give the contestants constructive criticism and tips throughout the series.

Her return was confirmed just ahead of the final which will see Louis Smith, Kimberley Walsh, Dani Harmer and Denise Van Outen strutting their stuff in a bid to land the glitterball trophy.

Bussell said: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my first series as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing and I'm absolutely delighted to be returning next year. After such a fantastic series with some brilliant dancers, I can't wait to see who the viewers will crown their winner for 2012."

Bussell, who relocated from Australia to take part in the show, initially raised eyebrows on the programme after continually adding "Yeah?" each time she spoke to the contestants.

It led some online wags to suggest drinking games based around the number of times she said it, but she quickly broke the habit.

Her arrival has coincided with Strictly consistently beating rival Saturday night show The X Factor.

A show source says: "Darcey has been a fantastic addition to the judging panel and a pleasure to watch this series. We couldn't be more thrilled with her reception from the Strictly audience.

"We cannot wait to have her back alongside Len (Goodman), Bruno (Tonioli) and Craig (Revel Horwood) next year."

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